Markus Albers
Sharing nicely
Daimler's car2go car-sharing service is still in its infancy. Can it provide enough vehicles to meet demand while offering genuine ease of use and affordability? Monocle puts it to the test.
Did they do well?
September marks a new political term in many countries, so we’ve compiled our report cards for 15 leaders. Who has gone to the top of the class and who should be doing extra homework?
Top of the glass
For five decades, a German family business has refined the 'perfect' glass washer. By leveraging employee expertise, this simple, non-electric device is now sold in more than 50 countries worldwide.
Europe
Copenhagen saddles up for the world's biggest urban cycling contest, Russia's "Silicon Valley" gets to live by its own rules, and Istanbul, the call to prayer becomes easier to the ear.
Raining supreme
For our series investigating the secrets of success, Monocle visits Austrian company Doppler, Europe’s biggest manufacturer of quality umbrellas. Its top product has been handcrafted in the same way since the 1940s.
Architecture/Design
An elegant summerhouse by Norwegian firm JVA, Pukeberg’s handcrafted glass from Sweden and a sleek stool collection from Melbourne. Plus, a catch-up with architect Kengo Kuma about his latest projects.
We’re all ears
Sennheiser’s obsessives have spent decades perfecting headphone and microphone technology to produce the most authentic sound. This nerdish persistence has paid off, as the loyalty of its customer base proves.
The world’s top 25 most liveable cities – 2009
Monocle’s researchers tested the world’s leading cities to find the best places to make your base. While Copenhagen won last year, the 2009 award for most liveable city goes to Zürich.
Europe
Turkish Military Academy, rebranding Italy and Angela Merkel's official transport of choice.
Health visitors
Affluent Arabs are increasingly choosing Germany’s private clinics for medical treatment. With patients spending an estimated €80,000 per stay, competition among German hospitals to attract these medical tourists is fierce.
